Midtown Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, accommodations, and travel tips for exploring Midtown in Baltimore, Maryland.


Introduction to Midtown

Midtown, located in Baltimore County in central Maryland, is a historic neighborhood situated in the heart of the city. It is a hub of cultural and entertainment activities with a diverse range of attractions, restaurants, and shopping destinations. From museums and historical landmarks to scenic parks and exciting nightlife, there is something for everyone in Midtown. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and travel tips for Midtown in Baltimore.

List of Places to Visit in Midtown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Walters Art Museum: This renowned museum boasts a world-class collection of art ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works. The museum hosts an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from around the globe.

  • Maryland Historical Society Museum: The Maryland Historical Society Museum is home to an extensive collection of Maryland artifacts and memorabilia. It is a perfect place to learn about the state’s rich history and culture.

  • The Baltimore Museum of Art: Located in the heart of Midtown, the Baltimore Museum of Art holds over 95,000 pieces of artwork. This includes the world-renowned Cone Collection, a treasure trove of masterpieces by Matisse and other modernist artists.

  • Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum: The home of the famous writer is now a museum dedicated to his life and legacy. Visitors can tour the house and learn about Poe’s life and literary career in Baltimore.

Natural Attractions of Midtown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Druid Hill Park: This sprawling park covers over 745 acres and is one of the oldest landscaped public parks in the United States. It has several attractions including the Maryland Zoo, the Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens, and the Druid Lake.

  • The Jones Falls Trail: This trail follows the Jones Falls River from the Inner Harbor to the northern suburbs of Baltimore. It is a popular spot for bikers, hikers, and joggers to enjoy the scenic views of the river and the surrounding woodlands.

  • Mount Vernon Place: This National Historic Landmark is home to the Washington Monument, one of the oldest memorials to George Washington in the United States. The park is surrounded by some of the most beautiful historic houses in the city, including the Peabody Institute and the Walters Art Museum.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Midtown

Midtown is a biker and hiker’s paradise. The city offers several bike trails that pass through some of the most scenic areas, including:

  • Gwynns Falls Trail: This trail spans over 15 miles and passes through some of Baltimore’s most beautiful parks, including Leakin Park, Gwynns Falls Park, and Patapsco Valley State Park.

  • Jones Falls Trail: This trail is a perfect way to get a glimpse of Baltimore’s urban nature and passes through the heart of Midtown.

Best Things to Do in Midtown: Activities and Tours

  • Baltimore Ghost Tours: Baltimore Ghost Tours is a popular attraction that offers a spooky and entertaining tour through some of the city’s haunted sites.

  • Mount Vernon Cultural District: The Mount Vernon Cultural District is home to some of the city’s best-known cultural landmarks, including the Washington Monument and the Peabody Institute. Visitors can take a guided tour through the district to discover the area’s rich history and heritage.

  • The Inner Harbor: The Inner Harbor is one of Baltimore’s most iconic attractions and is home to several must-visit sites, including the National Aquarium, the Maryland Science Center, and the USS Constellation.

Week-Long Itinerary for Midtown

Here’s a curated week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Midtown:

Day 1: Visit the Maryland Historical Society Museum, have lunch at the Mt. Vernon Marketplace, and visit the Walter’s Art Museum.

Day 2: Explore the Baltimore Museum of Art and Druid Hill Park.

Day 3: Take a bike ride or hike on the Jones Falls Trail and then head to the Mount Vernon Cultural District for lunch and sightseeing.

Day 4: Visit the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum and take a guided tour through the Fell’s Point neighborhood.

Day 5: Explore the Inner Harbor and take a boat ride on the harbor.

Day 6: Visit the Baltimore Farmers Market and then head to the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall for a concert.

Day 7: Spend the day at the Maryland Zoo and then have dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Midtown

Must-Try Dishes

Midtown is home to a diverse range of restaurants and cuisines. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, you’ll find something to suit your palate. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Crab cakes: Baltimore is famous for its crab cakes, and Midtown is no exception. You can find some of the city’s best crab cakes at Faidley Seafood at the Lexington Market.

  • Pit beef: While not as famous as crab cakes, pit beef is a local specialty that you won’t want to miss. Beef is slow-roasted over charcoal, thinly sliced, and served on a Kaiser roll with horseradish sauce.

  • Old Bay seasoning: Old Bay seasoning is a spice blend that is used in many Baltimore dishes, including crab cakes, seafood boils, and fries.

Local Beverages

Midtown has a thriving craft beer scene, with several breweries in and around the city. Some must-visit breweries include:

  • Union Craft Brewing: Union is an award-winning brewery that is known for its flagship beer, “Duckpin,” a hoppy session IPA.

  • The Brewer’s Art: The Brewer’s Art is a popular brewpub that serves up handcrafted beers and European-inspired cuisine.

Where to Stay in Midtown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Midtown offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best places to stay in Midtown include:

  • Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown: This boutique hotel is located in a historic building in the Mount Vernon district and offers stylish accommodations and modern amenities.

  • The Ivy Hotel: The Ivy is a luxury hotel that is housed in a grand mansion. It features elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and on-site dining.

  • HI Baltimore Hostel: The HI Baltimore Hostel is a budget-friendly option for travelers who want to explore the city without breaking the bank.

What to Buy in Midtown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Midtown is a great place to find unique souvenirs and locally made products. Some of the best places to shop for souvenirs include:

  • The Charm City Cakes Shop: The Charm City Cakes Shop is the bakery featured on the popular TV show “Ace of Cakes.” You can pick up a cake or some fun themed cupcakes as a souvenir.

  • Mount Vernon Marketplace: The Mount Vernon Marketplace is a food hall that features a variety of vendors selling everything from coffee to artisanal cheeses.

Local Culture and Customs of Midtown

Midtown is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood that is home to many different cultures and customs. Visitors should be respectful and mindful of the local customs, traditions, and values.

Best Time to Visit Midtown

The best time to visit Midtown is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. The summer can be hot and humid, and the winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Midtown

Do:

  • Explore the historic architecture and landmarks.

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.

  • Take a bike or hike along one of the scenic trails.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage historic sites.

  • Be loud and disruptive in residential areas.

  • Forget to check out the local museums and cultural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Midtown

Like any urban neighborhood, Midtown has its share of safety concerns. Visitors should take precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Midtown

Visitors to Midtown should keep in mind that Baltimore, like many other cities, has a high crime rate and that certain areas can be dangerous. It is always best to take precautions and exercise good judgment when walking around the city.

Getting to Midtown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Midtown is easily accessible by several modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near Midtown

  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport

  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Bus Stations Near Midtown

  • Baltimore Greyhound Bus Station

  • Megabus Baltimore Stop

Other Options

  • Amtrak train service

  • Baltimore Light Rail

How to Get Around in Midtown

Midtown is a walkable neighborhood, and visitors can easily explore the area on foot. Biking is another popular way to get around, and several bike rental shops offer hourly and daily rentals.

Where to Go Next from Midtown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Midtown is located in central Maryland, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions and destinations. Some must-visit places include:

  • The National Aquarium in Baltimore.

  • The Chesapeake Bay Bridge for a scenic drive.

Conclusion

Midtown is a lively and exciting neighborhood that is rich in history, culture, and entertainment. With an array of attractions, activities, and accommodations, Midtown is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Baltimore.

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